Cancellations: Because of our small group size and short traveler's season, cancellations affect us significantly. Last minute cancellations may leave us little chance of filling your reservation dates. We hold your space in good faith and will even turn away larger parities to honor your reservation. If we cancel the trip due to inclement weather or other factors out of our control, there is a 100% refund.

For reservations canceled more than 30 days prior to check-in date, the reservation deposit is refunded less a processing fee of 10% of reservation total. If reservation is cancelled within 30 days of check-in date, or in the case of a "no show" there is no refund, regardless of the reason. If guests need to cancel in short notice, they can re-book their reservation, or send another party in your place, anytime within that same year.

Answers to Frequently Asked questions

How do I get there? We are located in the coastal community of Homer, Alaska about 4 hours from Anchorage. Guests typically rent a car in Anchorage and visit us while they are in Homer. When you reserve your trip, you will receive a detailed information packet that outlines where and when to check-in in Homer.

How long do the trips last? ½ Day Trips average 5 hours; ¾ day trips average 6 hours; Full-day trips are 7-8 hours; Extended full day with Glacier Trekking 9 hours. Our overnight lodge packages are 24 hours, generally from 6 pm to 6pm the next day.

What about the weather? There is a wise saying here in Alaska: The weather is always nice, if its not, then you aren't prepared for it! Good rain jackets and layered, breathable clothing is important on our tours. Our trips operate rain or shine. While we hope for sun, we prepare for rain- then the weather is always good! Wet weather does have its up side: The glaciers appear more blue, the winds are generally calm, and animals sightings are more frequent on overcast days. On rare occasions, trips may be cancelled by us due to inclement weather or other factors out of our control. In this case, guests receive a full refund. In the event of heavy rain or wind, we may alter the trip itinerary for guest safety and comfort.

What do I wear/bring? Dress comfortably and warm and think "layers". Even on sunny days it is cold and breezy at the glacier. Wear long pants and bring an extra sweater or fleece. Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes are recommended. No sneakers or sandals except on half-day trips please. You bring: Day pack, sack lunch, snacks, water bottle, camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug repellent, rain jacket, rain pants, a warm hat, and gloves. We provide all technical gear, waterproof boots, and dry bags.

Will I see wildlife? Most likely. Sea otters, puffins, and bald eagles are often seen from the boat as we cross Kachemak Bay. We always stop for wildlife viewing, giving everyone ample time to enjoy and photograph the animals we see. Most trips include a stop at Gull Island, the third largest sea-bird rookery in Cook Inlet. It is the home to an estimated 35,000 nesting sea birds including cormorants, kittiwakes, murres, and tufted puffins. There is excellent marine life viewing at Hideaway Cove.

What kind of shape do I need to be in? We cater to guests in average and above average physical condition. Our shorter ½ day and ¾ day trips include lesser amounts of activity. If you are consider yourself in average physical condition, you will be fine. Our shorter trips involve about 2 hours paddling and 1-2 hours walking.

Our full day trips cater to active travelers. You will enjoy these trips if you are in good health and lead an active lifestyle. The "Hiking and Kayaking" trip is an active day, with about 3-4 hours spent hiking and 2-3 hours kayaking with frequent breaks. Guests currently under a doctor's care or with a pre-existing medical condition should contact us before making a reservation. Please share with us any concerns you have about the physical nature of the trip. We can help find the best trip for you!

What about bears and bugs? Alaska has plenty of both. Neither are a problem on our day trips. The breeze at the glacier keeps the bugs down. Occasionally on the hikes bug repellent is needed. It is rare to see a bear on the trip, simply because we try to avoid them. However, your guide is experienced with bear behavior and the do's and don'ts of a bear encounter. All trips begin with a "bear safety talk". If you are interested in a "bear viewing" trip, we can arrange a world class bear viewing trip into Katmai National Park.

Can children come on the trips? Children have a wonderful time on our trips. If your child is well-behaved, and can walk 3 to 4 miles, they are welcome. Children must be at least 12-years old to join our Extended Day Trips with Glacier Trekking. Please contact us with questions or concerns.

What kind of Kayaks do you use? We use two types of kayaks. For glacier kayaking, we use top-of-the-line inflatable kayaks. These two-person boats are the most stable kayaks we have found. They are comfortable and fun. Our guests love them! For our Halibut Cove paddle trips, we use double and single hard-hulled kayaks. Also very stable, these kayaks ply the Alaska water just as the Aleut kayaks have done for thousands of years. What kind of kayaks do you use?

What if I can’t swim? Swimming skills are not required. Our boats are very stable and you will receive basic kayak instruction before getting on the water. All guests are required to wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket. We have never had a tip-over, but should it happen, your PFD will keep you afloat. Your guide is also fully trained to get you back into your boat quickly.

What about gratuities? While never expected, tips are always appreciated, and a nice way to say thank you at the end of the trip. Guests have often asked “how much?” A guideline of 10% to 15% is the norm. Please give tips directly to your guide.

Can I do a custom trip, or a private tour? If you can dream it, we can make it happen. We have lived here and played here for the last 20 years; we know some amazing secret spots! The best advice for a custom trip is to involve a floatplane for a portion of it. This opens up a literal treasure chest of areas we can access in the Park that will make your friends back home very jealous!